3 Surprising Signs You Are Not Getting Enough Sleep

Feeling like you need a nap an hour after downing a venti latte is a pretty clear clue that you’re not getting enough sleep. However, there are some more subtle signs that you’re lacking z’s. Here are three to watch for:

  1. You’re hungrier than usual. Skimping on sleep increases levels of a hunger-related hormone and decreases levels of a hormone that helps control how much you consume. What’s more, a lack of sleep also causes you to crave higher-calorie foods.
  2. You feel down. Just a few nights of insufficient sleep can take a toll on your mood. You may feel irritable or even sad. Over time, sleeplessness can raise your risk for depression.
  3. You keep getting sick. Sleeping just five or six hours per night significantly increases your chances of coming down with a cold compared with sleeping seven or more hours per night, research shows. Too little time in bed chips away at important immune cells that help fend off illnesses. 

 

 

Sign up for our e-newsletter!

Get tips to help you manage your family's health, options to boost your fitness and advice to live your best life.

facebook
twitter
youtube play

Next Section

arrow down